Maze BJJ Safeguarding Statement


1.Policy Statement

Maze BJJ is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) gym based in Athlone founded by Head Coach David Coelho. Maze BJJ strives to promote a safe, positive and respectful learning environment for all adults and young people that are in our academy.

 

We have a duty of care to all people in our gym, particularly in relation to safeguarding children from harm and abuse and we work in line with:

  • Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (2017)
  • Children First Act 2015
  • Sport Ireland Child Safeguarding Guidance

The welfare of the child is always paramount.

 

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

·      All children and young people under 18 training in our gym.

·      All staff, coaches, volunteers, assistants, and contractors engaged in activities with children.

·      Parents, guardians, and visitors attending children’s sessions.

 

3. Principles to safeguard children from harm

Maze BJJ is committed to safeguarding children and by working under the guidance of our Safeguarding Policies our staff, both volunteers and employed, working with our young people, seek to create a safe environment for young people to grow and develop within sport. The following set of principles should be adhered to:

  • Importance of childhood - The importance of childhood should be understood and valued by everyone involved in sport.
  • Needs of the child - All children’s sport experiences should be guided by what is best for children. This means that adults should have a basic understanding of the emotional, physical and personal needs of young people.
  • Integrity in relationships - Adults interacting with children in sport are in a position of trust and influence. They should always ensure that children are treated with integrity and respect, and the self-esteem of young people is enhanced.
  • Fair Play - All children’s sport should be conducted in an atmosphere of fair play. The principles of fair play should always be emphasised, and organisers should give clear guidelines regarding acceptable standards of behaviour.
  • Quality atmosphere & ethos - Children’s sport should be conducted in a safe, positive and encouraging atmosphere.
  • Competition - Competition is an element of sport and should be encouraged in an age-appropriate manner. A child centred ethos will help to ensure that competition and specialisation are kept in their appropriate place.
  • Equality - All children should be valued and treated in an equitable and fair manner regardless of ability, age, gender, religion, social and ethnic background or political persuasion.

 

4. Code of Conduct

 

Coaches & Staff

  • Treat all children equally, with respect and dignity.
  • Maintain professional boundaries; never engage in inappropriate behaviour or language.
  • Avoid one-to-one unsupervised situations with children.
  • Use physical contact only for teaching techniques, correcting posture, or preventing injury.
  • Never ridicule, intimidate, or belittle a child.
  • Complete Garda Vetting, Safeguarding training, and all required checks.

 

Children

  • Show respect to coaches, teammates, and equipment.
  • Train with fairness and kindness.
  • Speak up if something makes them uncomfortable.

 

Parents/Guardians

  • Support the ethos of the academy.
  • Deliver and collect children on time.
  • Inform coaches of any medical conditions or special needs.
  • Raise concerns promptly with the Designated Liaison Person.

 

6. Safeguarding Roles

Designated Liaison Person (DLP): Jack Doyle

·      Is responsible for handling child protection concerns and liaising with Tusla (The Child and Family Agency in Ireland).

 

 

Deputy Designated Liaison Person: Sarah Connaughton.

·      Acts if the DLP is unavailable.

 

All safeguarding concerns will be handled with sensitively and respectfully as laid out in the Children First Guidelines.

 

7. Recruitment & Training

  • All staff and volunteers working with children must undergo Garda Vetting and reference checks.
  • Coaches must complete Sport Ireland Safeguarding Training (minimum Level 1).
  • Ongoing training will be provided to maintain best practice.

 

8. Supervision & Safety

  • At least two adults should be present during all children’s sessions.
  • Changing rooms should be appropriately supervised; adults and children should not change together.
  • Parents/guardians are welcome to observe sessions.
  • Emergency contact and medical information will be accessible at all times.

 

9. Responding to Concerns & Allegations

  • Any suspicion or allegation of abuse must be reported immediately to the Designated Liaison Person.
  • The DLP will follow Children First procedures and, if necessary, report to Tusla and/or An Garda Síochána.
  • Records of concerns will be kept securely and confidentially.

 

10. Anti-Bullying Policy

  • Bullying in any form (verbal, physical, social, or online) will not be tolerated.
  • All reports of bullying will be investigated and addressed promptly.

 

11. Communication & Social Media

  • Photos/videos of children will only be taken with parental consent.
  • Coaches will not engage in one-to-one online communication with children.
  • Group communication channels involving children will include parents/guardians.
  • Photos of any member over the age of 18 will only be taken with consent.

 

12. Review of Policy

This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if required by legislation, guidance, or organisational change.

 

Jack Doyle DLP. 10/10/2026

Jackodoyle2@gmail.com

+353 087 720 4561